What is sexual coercion, manipulation, or neglect?
Sexual coercion, also called rape, is when someone pressures another person to have sex against their will. Manipulation is when someone uses emotional or mental tactics to get what they want sexually. Neglect is when someone ignores or refuses the needs of a partner for sex. These actions can lead to negative psychological consequences that affect both individuals involved in the relationship.
Psychological effects of sexual coercion
After being forced into having sex, a victim may experience shame, fear, anger, and depression. They may feel guilty for not fighting back or resisting more strongly. They may blame themselves for allowing it to happen. This could make them avoid future intimate encounters out of fear or embarrassment. It might even cause post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms such as flashbacks or nightmares about the incident. The perpetrator's feelings of guilt or remorse may be suppressed if there are no legal repercussions or social sanctions for the crime.
Psychological effects of sexual manipulation
If someone is persuaded through emotional blackmail, gaslighting, or other means to have sex when they don't really want to, they may become depressed, anxious, or angry afterwards. In a long-term situation like an abusive marriage or relationship, this could contribute to low self-esteem and difficulty trusting others in the future. It could also result in physical health problems due to stress hormones released by anxiety. The perpetrator may deny any wrongdoing despite evidence of their behavior.
Psychological effects of sexual neglect
Someone who feels rejected or unloved because their partner consistently ignores them sexually may develop low self-esteem or mistrust of romantic partners. They may feel isolated or alone without intimacy in the relationship. Their mental health can suffer from lack of connection with another person. If one party has certain medical conditions that require regular sex for optimal treatment, then sexual neglect could impact their quality of life and wellbeing.
Sexual coercion, manipulation, and neglect have serious psychological consequences on all parties involved. Victims may experience trauma, shame, guilt, depression, anger, and anxiety. Perpetrators may remain unaware of their actions or hide behind denial or rationalization. Neglect victims may find it difficult to form meaningful relationships in the future.
What are the psychological consequences of sexual coercion, manipulation, or neglect?
The psychological effects of sexual coercion, manipulation, or neglect can be profound and long-lasting. Individuals who experience such abuse may struggle with feelings of shame, guilt, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health issues. They may also have difficulty trusting others and forming healthy relationships in the future.